Common Causes of Pediatric Dental Emergencies
Pediatric dental emergencies are something no parent wants to deal with, yet they’re more common than many realize. One minute your child is happily playing; the next, there’s blood, tears, and a panicked call to the dentist. Knowing the usual culprits behind these dental mishaps can help you stay prepared and respond quickly.
Falls and Playground Accidents
It’s no surprise that active kids often take a tumble. Falls, especially on playground equipment, sidewalks, or slippery floors, are a top cause of dental injuries in children. The front teeth take the brunt of the impact most of the time. Chips, cracks, or even knocked-out teeth can happen in seconds. Even if the damage seems minor, a dental check is always smart after a hard hit to the mouth.
Sometimes, instead of being knocked out, a tooth gets pushed up into the gum. This is called an intruded tooth, and it’s just as serious. Both knocked-out and intruded teeth require urgent dental care. If a tooth does come out entirely, placing it in milk and heading straight to the dentist can make a big difference. If it’s an intruded tooth, avoid touching it and get your child seen right away.
Sports Injuries
Organized sports and casual backyard games both carry dental risks. Contact sports like soccer, basketball, and football lead the list. Even non-contact activities like bike riding can cause oral injuries if a fall happens.
A custom mouthguard can help reduce the risk. Many parents in Charlotte opt for mouthguards after just one dental emergency. Prevention here really can save teeth and money down the road.
Biting Down on Hard Objects
Sometimes the biggest dental emergencies happen at the dinner table. Biting down on hard candy, ice cubes, or unpopped popcorn kernels is a common cause of tooth fractures.
These injuries aren’t just painful; they can leave teeth exposed and vulnerable to infection. Teach kids to be cautious with crunchy snacks, and consider setting some rules about what stays off the menu.
Biting Injuries to the Tongue or Lip
Young children sometimes bite their lip or tongue during a fall, or even while chewing food too quickly. Minor cuts usually heal on their own. However, if the bleeding is heavy or the wound looks deep, it’s time to get professional care. Keeping the area clean and applying a cold compress can help manage swelling until you get to the office.
Cavities Left Untreated
A small cavity might seem harmless, but if left alone, it can turn into something more serious. An untreated cavity can lead to severe toothaches, infections, or even abscesses that require emergency care.
The good news? Regular checkups and cleanings can help catch issues early. Dr. Lisa Candon, Dr. Michael Holt, and Dr. Cecilia (Sun) Hwang often remind parents that prevention is the best defense against toothaches that pop up at the worst times.
When Accidents Happen: Call Blakeney Pediatric Dentistry In Charlotte, NC
If your child experiences a dental emergency, knowing where to turn makes all the difference. At Blakeney Pediatric Dentistry in Charlotte, NC, Dr. Lisa Candon, Dr. Michael Holt, and Dr. Cecilia (Sun) Hwang are ready to help. Whether it’s a chipped tooth, a knocked-out tooth, or sudden tooth pain, fast and professional care matters.
Call the office to schedule an urgent evaluation or ask for advice on handling the situation until you arrive. Their team is experienced in keeping kids calm and treating dental injuries with care and expertise. Don’t wait—early care makes all the difference when it comes to dental emergencies.
Image from Authority Dental under CC 2.0
